"Madison Square – The Neighborhood New Yorkers Don’t Know"

Ask a New York City resident how to get to the neighborhood known as ‘Madison Square,’ and the majority will promptly and politely tell you to head to 8th Avenue and West 34th Street. Unfortunate the response may be prompt and polite, but it’s dead wrong.

The well-meaning New Yorker is steering you towards Madison Square Garden, Manhattan’s popular music and sports arena in the area known as Midtown West. But Madison Square, the neighborhood, is across town entirely. It’s an area in midtown, but on the east side, upscale and wearing its wealth without embarrassment...often attired in clothing from the high-end boutiques along nearby Fifth Avenue.

Madison Square is formed by the intersection of a crazy mashup of streets located at 23rd Street, where Broadway and Fifth Avenue criss-cross. The heart of the area is Madison Square Park, a lovely swath of green that runs from 23rd Street to 26th Street, bounded on the East by Madison Avenue at the West by Fifth Avenue. It is surrounded by soaring high rises and elegant apartments in every configuration.

‘Madison Square’ is sometimes, but rarely used to describe the blocks immediately surrounding the park, however most New Yorkers simply think of Madison Square as the northern tip of the Flatiron District; more so today as the Flatiron has become a popular neighborhood in its own right. The rents in the area are comparable to what would be called Manhattan’s “better neighborhoods” with studios in the $3,000 range. A 3-bedroom/3-bath luxury condo (about 2,000 square feet) is currently being offered at just over $4 million dollars...with a $1,317 monthly maintenance fee and $243 monthly real estate tax.

Madison Square feels urban and bustling. You’ll find plenty of great takeout food spots and restaurants, but you’ll have to walk a couple of avenues to the east or west to find supermarkets. (Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods are in walking distance) There’s lots to do at night, with a vibrant atmosphere, particularly in the spring and summer months as locals and visitors share the streets and a scoop of gelato from a specialty cart.

This is as wonderful neighborhood for commuters. The frequent and reliable crosstown bus on 23rd Street can be slow during rush hour, but it connects with all the major subway lines from 5th Avenue to 8th Avenue, making it easy to get anywhere.

"Madison Square: Quaint Area in Lower Manhattan"

If you're at the intersection of Broadway and 23rd Street you will notice a pretty small park where people go to sit, take retreat from their jobs at lunch time, or relax while taking a jaunt around town. This area is called Madison Square. It wasn't always this nice, but recent efforts have tried to keep the park in a much nicer state for residents to enjoy. This is not where the Madison Square Garden complex is located however. That's further uptown at 32nd Street. Rents down this way are much more affordable than further uptown, and eateries and groceries are much more affordable too. You can find some nice places to stroll if you have the time, but this area will not dazzle you like others. There are some businesses down here but they tend to be on the small side and the area is more known to be residential with some commerce woven in. It can feel a bit industrial in places. There are some lofts to be had but they will be much more expensive than the average apartment.

There is some good nightlight possibilities nearby with Gotham Comedy Club on 23rd Street and tons of little restaurants about. Transportation is also very convenient here, so you will be able to zip about to the rest of the city in no time especially if you hop on the train.

"Madison Square: The "Almost" Neighborhood."

Madison Square is a patch of land surrounding Madison Square Park on east 23rd where Fifth and Broadway cross one another. Many consider the area to be part of the Flatiron district.

The area includes Madison Square Park, a pretty patch of grass on east 23rd. I have always found Madison Square Park to be a relaxing spot to people watch or read a book. The southwest corner of the park also has a small size dog run. The park is bordered by Fifth and Madison Avenues and extends from 23rd to 26th street. Since renovations were completed in 2001 the park is one of the prettiest in the city albeit on the small size. From anywhere you sit you will have a great view of the architecture of the buildings surrounding the park. Historic landmarks such as the famous Flatiron Building and the Metlife Tower are directly across the street. Both buildings are considered to be among the first skyscrapers ever built.

The area is primarily commercial and offers good shopping opportunities along Fifth Avenue. The Shake Shack which opened in Madison Square Park in 2004 has become one of the most popular burger and hot dog stands in the whole city with lines sometimes extending halfway around the park. They also make an awesome frozen custard. While other Shake Shacks have since opened in other parts of the city, the stand in the park is a crowd favorite. More traditional fare may be found at A Voce, offering fine Italian Cuisine, Ben and Jacks Steakhouse just north of the park, and Dos Caminos offering traditional Mexican dishes and Tabla, offering Indian and American cuisine.

The area is convenient to all areas of Manhattan and is served by the 4, 5 and 6 trains.

"Madison Square Garden, A Small Park, And A Shake Shack"

Madison Square Park is not really a neighborhood nor a place to live. It is the home of three things that many tourists and some locals will either frequent or hate. Otherwise it is a tiny commercial area you'll be passing through as you make your way up to Midtown.

Madison Square Garden is the big attraction, hosting Knicks and Rangers games as well as many concerts and shows that can afford the MSG price tag. The tickets are pricy but then again, isn't everything?

Madison Square Park is a fairly small park that most New Yorkers never really notice. It may be a nice place to sit and enjoy a burger as you pass through but really the area does not have much to offer. Some statues around the park include David Farragut, William Seward (Lincoln's Secretary of State), President Chester Arthur, and former Republican leader Roscoe Conkling.

The place that attracts the most attention is the fairly new Shake Shack that has the whole city buzzing. It's one of those weird word-of-mouth phenomenons that catches on with the younger generation. The burgers are really good, far from the best in the city. If you really want the best burger in the city, try the Corner Bistro or Blue 9 Burger. Just sayin'.

"Commercial, not residential - I wouldn't live here"

Madison Square is "sort of" a neighborhood in midtown Manhattan, but I've never really thought of it as a neighborhood. Still, from what I understand, it's a very small area surrounding Madison Square Park, which is a public park at 23rd Street where Fifth Avenue and Broadway meet. It isn't a very pretty park, nor is it very big or all that green. But it's historical, as it was built in the 1800s, and it was refurbished in 2001. What I can say about this area is that it's very busy, very noisy, and not a place I'd want to live. I think of it as totally commercial and not remotely residential.

That said, the shopping is great around Madison Square, and I often find myself in the area to buy things. The architecture in the vicinity is pretty interesting as well. You might think that Madison Square Garden is in this neighborhood, but not anymore. It used to be, but now, it's farther north in the West 30s.

There are some good restaurants in Madison Square. Everybody mentions Shake Shack, so if you're a burger lover, go stand in line. Of course, Shake Shack isn't really a restaurant; it's a food stand. If you do choose to live in this neighborhood, count on paying a lot for your apartment, but it's certainly convenient to all areas of Manhattan – just a few steps or subway stops from anything and everything.

"Home of Shake Shack (and everyone who eats there)"

Madison Square is actually a nice little spot with buildings that are impressive and not completely invasive or overwhelming. The'yre old, stoic, and proud enough to stand the test of time.

Madison Square Park is sort of like a large town common with more pathways than grass, but some pretty wonderful events get hosted here....many for dogs, which (as a dog lover) gives this area bonus points.

Shake Shack (the burger sensation that's sweeping the city) started here and if you haven't seen it, you've at least seen the lines of people waiting (some up to an hour) for their bite of Shake Shack burger.

It can be crowded and the city buzz is fairly relentless. At times it can feel like an upscale version of Chinatown or a smaller, more expensive Time Square.

This isn't the kind of neighborhood you go out of your way to live in, but casually appreciate on a late Sunday afternoon if you catch it after the tourists and before the sunsets.

I have mixed feelings about this area. I've had fond moments where I feel like I'm at the center of calm New York grandeur, and moments where I cannot wait to leave this filthy, over-populated tourist-trap of a city.

"New Yorkers' Park"

While Central Park has become more like a veritable theme park with all of its attractions and constant bustle, New Yorkers look for parks that are more of a relaxing place to get away – to step off of the ever-busy sidewalks and escape the concrete, noisy traffic and rushing pedestrians. Madison Square Park is that kind of oasis, even if it has gotten more crowded in recent years thanks to the opening of one of New York’s most popular burger joints.

Without zoos and pools and castles, Madison Square Park is a simple, peaceful spot with green beauty all around. It is lush and relatively quiet, the perfect place to meditate, curl up with a book or have a catch-up lunch with friends. At night, the park and its surrounding area offer a romantic view, creating an Edgar Allen Poe-esque tableau with the trees framing an illuminated clock tower.

But let’s face it. The top reason most people flock to Madison Square Park is the aforementioned burger joint, Shake Shack. A line wraps halfway around the park on any given day – a line most deem completely worth it for the sought-after perfect burgers, fries and shakes. While Shake Shacks have popped up across the city since the original branch’s opening in the park, Madison Square’s location remains the most popular – what could be more perfect than chowing down on your expertly cooked fast food in a lush park plopped in the middle of the city?

"What a Beautiful Place to Be"

If you want to go to a beautiful place in lower Manhattan, you need to go to Madison Square Park. It is absolutely breath-taking. You can go in there and smell the flowers. It is really a fantastic place to be. You will really enjoy being there away from the hassle of the city.

"Nice space, no complaints"

I don't really have anything bad to say about Madison Square - it's a nice little park in the middle of the tall New York City landscape, and as someone who lives in NYC you can't really do too much complaining about any amount of green space that may appear on the horizon. One of my favorite New York sights - the Flatiron building - is located here, and the surrounding area plays host to some decent shopping, especially at affordable chains like H&M and whatnot. I've never really heard the surrounding neighborhood referred to as "Madison Square," but perhaps there is still someone out there who calls it that.

I recently stopped by Shake Shack for the first time ever - I got a Shack burger, fries, and a strawberry (malted) milkshake. Everything was great - and it the burger was the best greasy fast food number I've had in a while. Definitely recommend (just beware the 90 line that tends to trail around the park during lunchtime).

"Just a really great park"

Madison Square, take broadly as a term is the area around Madison Square Park, within the Flatiron District. It should not be confused with Madison Square Garden, which is located further up, in the East Thirties. The square used to be Manhattan's shopping paradise, and many of the buildings that are still preserved in the area used to be the grand old department stores on New York's lavish past eras. The area is still packed with retailers, major hotels, and various establishments involved in the entertainment industry. Architecturally, the square is notable for the famous Flatiron Building, the most distinctive and beautiful of all the buildings in the area. Also very imposing are the Metlife Tower and the NY Life Insurance Company building, both examples of typical turn of the century skyscraper office tower architecture. The most recent addition, which is in contrast to the surrounding buildings, is the huge 50 story glass tower, The Saya, at one Madison Park. It is a residential skyscraper and unusual to the commercial interests in the area. Madison Square has historically been one of the most important squares in New York City, and continues to be a mecca of shopping and commercial activity.

"Two words: Shake Shack"

Ok, so Madison Square isn't a neighborhood: it's been engulfed by Flatiron. Basically, Madison Square is the top of Flatiron now -- pretty much only the park is left. The park is beautiful and a great place to hang in the warmer months. It's not enough to feel like you're out of the city but it's definitely good for a quick decompress and to feel some sun on your face. But, one of the most important staples of NY is in that park: Shake Shack!
Shake Shack is this tiny burger and shake joint in the middle of the park that is constantly packed. It's owned by Danny Meyer and it is out of this world. There is always a line at least half a block long waiting to get a tasty treat. And, getting a table once you've ordered is a whole other process. People stalk and lurk and stare to get those coveted white benches. It's so worth it though.
Wish I could say more about the neighborhood but they should just probably change the name to Park with the Shake Shack area.

"The park is the centerpiece"

Madison Square as a neighborhood per se has historically shrunk and been replaced by the Flatiron District. It is probably most memorable for the fact that Madison Square Park and Madison Square garden now bear its name. Although the park is the central focus of Madison Square, the current incarnation of the sports arena Madison Square Garden, confusingly, is not located in the area of Madison Square. Shake Shack, located smack in the middle of the park, and is a major draw for people. On summer evenings I have been astonished at the length of the lines for shakes, and the amount of time people are willing to wait to have one. The buildings around Madison Square are impressive and to me feel like true New York style: the Flatiron Building, the old Met Life Tower, and such. The sheer gorgeousness of the park, totally revamped in 2001, is worth a lingering look, especially in summertime. In the neighboring side streets I have ducked into one or another chic little restaurants and enjoyed cocktails or a glass of wine on long summer nights. Most such places offer excellent but pricey drinks, and you have the distinct feeling half of what you pay for is an ambiance of sophistication.

"Mixed Use in Character"

Madison Square which is located within the Flatiron District in Manhattan has a rich history associated with it. This area was originally designated as a public space with the creation of Madison Square Park between 23rd and 26th streets and Fifth and Madison avenues in the mid-19th century. The area around the park was essentially a residential area at that time which soon began to be populated with several commercial establishments and shops. In fact the area of Broadway that lies between Madison Square and Union Square was once known as Ladies’ Mile as it was filled with retailers who specialized in women’s wear. Today the area continues to be a mixed use neighborhood which has within it various kinds of retail establishments as well as offices of advertising agencies, publishing houses, web- based companies, hotels and restaurants. The Madison Square area is also renowned for its many famous buildings like the landmark, beaux art Flatiron building which is located at 23rd street at the junction of Broadway and Fifth Avenue, the Metlife Tower which houses the offices of the Swiss bank Credit Suisse, the New York Life Insurance building and the luxury condominium building One Madison Park which is a 51 storey tower that houses expensive residences and is also known as ‘the Saya’. However the most famous landmark of this neighborhood is its verdant, statue filled Madison Square Park which until ten years ago was crime ridden and neglected but which today has been rejuvenated by the tireless efforts of the Madison Square Conservancy, a nonprofit organization which now is responsible for its upkeep.

"A pleasant commercial area"

Less a neighborhood than a piazza, this tiny little neighborhood is located between the Flatiron district and Union Square (contrary to misconception, Madison Square Garden itself is not located here). It's certainly nice enough, with architecturally interesting buildings including the Met Life Tower and the New York Life Building, whose clock tower provides a romantic beacon of light over lovers wandering the park at midnight. Revitalized in 2001 as part of an urban renewal project, the neighborhood is based around its park, which includes not only some charming benches but also a bizarre Shake Shack stand designed by Sculpture in the Environment. The area is mostly commercial, housing offices and some fast food joints and wholesalers, and is thus not suitable for families seeking accommodation. It is, however, a not inadvisable place to work, given its proximity to the bars and restaurants of Union Square and its physical beauty.

"Don't judge a book by it cover, or a neighborhood by its name"

Madison Square is actually referred to as the Flatiron. This centralized and convenient location is popular among older business people, young artists, and addicted shoppers. The overall district gets its name, Flatiron, from the Flatiron building. This building was the first steel framed building and famous for its triangular shape.

Madison Square Park is a wonderful and renovated spot to walk your dog and enjoy the outdoors. It is quiet and a great place to just sit on a bench and enjoy the scenery. This neighborhood has some of the most detailed architecture in all of Manhattan. There are also huge and airy lofts, making it a popular setting for the young and aspiring artist/writer/poet.

Enjoy the sophisticated Restaurant Row on Park Avenue South - like Butter, Rice, and Periyali, or some classy shopping on nearby Fifth and Broadway. If you enjoy shopping for bargains, check out large discounters like Filenes' Basement along Sixth Avenue.

"Beautiful view of the city"

This is generally not a name you hear much anymore – I had to look into myself, because, well, I’d never heard it. It turns out that Madison Square was formerly the name of the northern end of the Flatiron District (did you learn something new, too?). It is also the name of an actual park, and it was formerly the site of the original Madison Square Garden, though that building is no longer there, and the current Madison Square Garden is located elsewhere. The park itself was renovated about seven years ago, and it’s a beautiful place to sit and view the neighboring architecture, which includes the Flatiron Builinds and the Met Life Tower.